In our latest 3-part travel series, we take FAJO’s readers across Italy on a special food adventure.

Following Part I and Part II of this series, we are wrapping up our coverage from our recent trip across Italy with ITALMOPA. In this final story, we take you to a stunning city filled with history: Naples.

And, this time, it’s (mostly) all about food!

Ciao Napoli!

Napoli is a gorgeous city in southern Italy, nestled in the middle of the arc of hills from Posillipo in the north, to the Sorrento Peninsula in the south. 

On a clear day, the Isle of Capri can be seen in the distance. While not as busy of a port as it once was, the city is full of charm and deep ties to a rich history that blends ancient traditions with influences from many different eras. With so much to explore and boasting a vibrant culinary scene, Napoli is a destination you must visit.

Galleria Umberto is the perfect spot to do a little shopping. Located directly across from the San Carlo Opera House, it’s easy to find. The building is sunny and airy, with a large glass dome connected by four-barrel glass domes. Built between 1887 and 1890, this gorgeous building was meant to be a cultural hub, inspired by the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan.

The Perfect Pizza Experience

When you think of Napoli, it’s hard not to picture the perfect Neapolitan pizza, specifically the beloved pizza Margherita. Inspired by the Italian flag and created for royalty, this classic pizza features a tomato base topped with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil. For pizza to be considered Neapolitan, there are precise characteristics of the flour which can be used. According to ITALMOPA, the Italian Association of Millers, “it must be made up of a mixture of type 00 and type 0 flours with a medium-high strength, varying between 220 and 380 W.”

Another classic is the Marinara pizza, the predecessor to pizza Margherita, which was created in the 17th century when tomatoes arrived from South America to Italy. 

No matter which one you decide to try, Neapolitan pizza is a must on any trip to Napoli. Pair it with an Aperol Spritz for a memorable meal!

A Coffee Lover’s Dream

Coffee lovers should visit the famous Gran Caffè La Caffettiera, which has been serving meticulously crafted coffee and cakes for over 40 years. 

Coffee is expertly prepared in the traditional manner, table side, for the perfect cup. In fact, Gran Caffè is actually the first Embassy of Neapolitan coffee, as they obsess over the humidity when grinding the beans to the type of cup the coffee is served in, for the best taste possible. 

After you’re done, take a walk to the waterfront, where you can admire the sparkling sea and even catch a glimpse of Mount Vesuvius.

Master the Art of Pasta 

When in Napoli, be sure to book a pasta-making demo to learn the art of making pasta with organic flour and semolina flour. The team at Baccalaria does a fantastic job teaching you the ins and outs of pasta, along with sharing the history of this Italian classic. Even if you can’t take a class — stop by for lunch: their stuffed pasta cannot be missed!  

An Unforgettable Dinner by the Sea

For dinner, Palazzo Petrucci, the restaurant that wowed the cast of Bravo’s Below Deck, serves delicious seafood right on Villa Donn’Anna beach. The view of waves crashing on the sand under dancing lights adds to the ambiance. Dine on their 5 or 6-course seafood feasts for a memorable meal. Don’t sleep on the mouthwatering seabass, which is definitely a highlight!  

We also recommend Taverna dell’Arte, where every dish is like a little piece of art. Make sure to stop by there, if you are looking for a fabulous and exquisite dining experience!

Step Back in Time

History buffs will enjoy a day trip to visit the Archaeological Excavation of Pompeii, an extensive city destroyed due to the 9 feet of ash and volcanic debris, which covered the city after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in August, 79 CE. Around 2,000 lives were lost in the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, mostly due to suffocation as a result of the eruption. 

Additional debris buried the city even further, freezing it in time. It’s easy to find yourself captivated while walking through and discovering this well-preserved ancient city. 

From the Amphitheater of Pompeii, one of the oldest amphitheaters in the world, to Macellum, which was once a bustling shopping area, the well-preserved ruins make it easy to imagine people going about their daily lives in this once thriving city.

Savour the Charm of Sorrento

Another can’t-miss day trip is to Sorrento. This beautiful coastal town is like an homage to lemons with citrus growing everywhere and proudly displayed in almost every shop. Everywhere you go, there’s a dessert or fresh citrus drink to try. However, it’s the views which really make Sorrento worth the trip.  

While there, make sure to indulge in some classic fare. The Tagliolini (a pasta with lemon cream sauce dish with red prawns, and lumpfish on creamed spinach all served in a lemon), or Spaghetti “cacio e pepe” (made with goat cheese and black pepper, served with beef ragout Neapolitan style) at L’Antica Trattoria are truly memorable.

Until next time

Napoli is a city that has it all — rich history, stunning views, world-famous cuisine, and a unique blend of tradition and modern charm. From indulging in authentic Neapolitan pizza and freshly brewed coffee, to exploring ancient ruins, shopping under the glass dome of Galleria Umberto or taking a day-trip to another city nearby, Napoli has many special offerings.

Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront, learning the art of pasta-making or dining by the sea, this vibrant city promises an unforgettable experience.

All photography by Janine Silver; pizza images by Unsplash+.